[Searching for Autumn in Gokase] November 19 A little late, but I went looking for autumn around Gokase and am sharing some photos📸✨ Photo 1 / Shirataki Falls Photo 2 / From the bridge on the way to Unoko Falls viewing point Photo 3 / From Yūhi no Sato Ohashi (Sunset Village Bridge) Photos 4 and 5 / Near the torii at Myoken Shrine

G Music Corps Regular Concert On Sunday, November 17th, the G Music Corps held a concert at Yumeyume Plaza TAC in Takachiho Town🎺🎶 The program was packed into four exciting parts😳💡 Under the baton of conductor Mitsutoshi Hasebe, the concert opened with a Disney medley. Familiar tunes arrived on a dynamic sound that made people move along before they knew it🤩👏 In the second part, dancers from Takachiho Town’s studio DACTCREW delivered an impressive performance to popular songs🪩💫 The third part recreated the original show’s format with a lively amateur singing stage😆🎤 Seven contestants from Gokase, Takachiho, and Kumamoto Prefecture sang joyfully to live wind ensemble accompaniment✨ A former real bell-ringer from the original program played the bell live, a trophy was presented to the winner, and the excitement peaked 🥳👏 The final fourth part featured guests trumpeter MAKOTO, drummer Kiyotaka Kuroda, and pianist Satsuki Imamura in a powerful, high-impact set😳✨ Audience members praised the event, saying things like "I’m glad I came; I never expected it to be this much fun" 🥹💕 G Music Corps, active both inside and outside the prefecture, delivered a wonderful performance that makes you want to cheer them on for the future. Great job to everyone involved❗

Sunset Village Exhibition✨ On Saturday and Sunday, November 16–17, the former Kuwanouchi Elementary School gym hosted the "Sunset Village Exhibition" and the "Small Sato Frost Month Festival," to much excitement 😆🎉 Creative works by local residents were on display, and visitors toured them with great interest 👀 On Saturday, November 16, food stalls and workshops drew lively crowds 😁 At the workshops, many people happily carried their finished pieces home, and seeing that made us happy too 😊

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Yuzaku Park Autumn Light-Up 2024 Yuzaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City Around 500 maple and Japanese maple trees surround Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, making this one of Oita Prefecture’s premier autumn color destinations. This site attracts many visitors during the fall foliage season. The 2024 light-up has ended. Location Yuzaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station Parking available (free) Access times to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Walk through the autumn leaves of Yūjaku Park (Yūjaku Kōen) 2 Yūjaku Park in Asoji Town, Bungoono City Around Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, about 500 maple and Japanese maple trees are planted, making this a representative autumn-color spot in Oita Prefecture. Many people visit during the autumn foliage season. Location Yūjaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asoji Town, Bungoono City) About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asoji Station Parking available (free) Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended sightseeing, gourmet, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourist Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourist Association website is available from our profile.

Autumn leaves spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Walking among the autumn colors at Yujaku Park (Yujaku Kōen) Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City Around Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, about 500 maple and Japanese maple trees are planted, making this one of Oita Prefecture’s representative autumn-leaf viewing spots. Many visitors come during the autumn foliage season. Location Yujaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) About a 45-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About a 6-minute drive from Roadside Station Asaji About a 4-minute drive from JR Asaji Station Parking available (free) Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended spots in Bungoono City for sightseeing, food, and accommodation ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be glad if you follow us. You can find the Bungoono City Tourism Association website linked from the profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City [Hoshōji Autumn Leaves 2024] Hoshōji Temple in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history spanning over 800 years. It displays vivid colors during the autumn foliage season. During the event period, the temple is lit up, enchanting visitors with its mystical atmosphere. Here is a look at the autumn leaves in 2024. [Location] Hoshōji Temple (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungoono City Tourism Association website linked in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture’s Bungoono City Hoshōji Temple (Hoshōji) Hoshōji Temple, which is lit up during the autumn foliage season, also looks beautiful in daytime. Hoshōji Temple is located in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history of more than 800 years. It displays vivid colors during the autumn foliage season. During the event period, the temple is illuminated, and its magical atmosphere captivates visitors. Location Hoshōji Temple (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa We will also announce foliage conditions on the tourism association’s Instagram. ■■■ Access to Bungoono City center ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for Bungoono City sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodations⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami: A Scene from Yakumo Barai 02 On November 9, 2024, Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. A kagura dance unfolded on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, creating a beautiful, otherworldly scene as the autumn leaves and the performance reflected on the water. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in the profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami: A Scene from Yakumo-barai 01 On November 9, 2024, Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The kagura dance was performed on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, and the autumn leaves and the kagura reflected on the water created a magical scene. ■■■Access to central Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yojaku Yokagura Mizukagami On November 9, 2024, "Yojaku Yokagura Mizukagami" took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Performers displayed kagura dances on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, creating a beautiful, otherworldly scene as the autumn leaves and the dances reflected on the water. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

[Searching for Autumn in Gokase] The season is silver grass (susuki)🌾✨ Gokase Town’s autumn leaves have finally come into their prime🍁 Today I visited Mt. Masugata and Mt. Futagami🚗💭 First, Mt. Masugata💪 The view was hazy, but the temperature was perfect and the summit felt refreshing😌🌿 The dodantutsugi (Enkianthus) turned bright red, and the susuki backlit by the sun glittered—what a sight 🥹👏 On the trail down toward Furuto-no Shrine from Mt. Masugata, I came across a scene that made me think, "Is this a picture book world!?"😳💡 Fields of susuki swayed like a sea, and set against the rolling mountains, the view was unbelievably beautiful✨ A new susuki spot…!?🌾 The susuki have become fluffy and are at their peak right now❗ Please go and look for them yourselves🤗 Next, Mt. Futagami💡 Until recently the road from Gokase was under construction and impassable, so it was my first time driving it in a while👣 Enjoying the patches of autumn color along the way, I made my way up to the observation deck with steady effort💪 By the time I reached the summit the sun had started to tilt, sharpening the mountain silhouettes, and the moon floated in the vast sky—a picture-like scene🖼️✨ It’s been ages since I climbed a mountain so I already feel it in my legs, but the joy at the top makes it totally worth it🤩 The Gokase Tourism Association is currently running the "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" event on its Instagram account, and you are welcome to submit photos of autumn scenes like susuki✨ Please share Gokase’s beautiful autumn scenery with us🤗💫 For details, see the pinned "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" post on the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram profile🍁

Yama no Ocha Sakamotoen Autumn Warehouse Sale Today, Sunday, November 10th, the “Autumn Warehouse Sale” took place on the grounds of Sakamotoen 🍵✨ Sakamotoen’s booth offered discounted teas, and shoppers who spent over ¥2,000 could enter a raffle—what a deal 😳👏 There were also light food stalls, food trucks, and booths selling crafts and relaxation services, creating a calm, pleasant atmosphere 😌💕 A fill-a-bag of mandarins for ¥500 drew challengers who expertly piled the bags full—watching their skill made me laugh out loud 🤣🤣🤣 The festival’s highlights, the hojicha latte and matcha latte, were truly delicious and ordered by many 🤤 I couldn’t stop at the hojicha latte I bought first and ended up enjoying a matcha latte too 🤭 Simply perfect ✨ Inside the building, beautiful kyusus and Sakamotoen’s tea products lined the shelves 😳💡It was pure luxury to imagine brewing tea with a favorite kyusu while browsing the many tea varieties 🥹… Although it rained, everyone relaxed and smiled as they enjoyed their tea, making it a lovely festival 😌💕

Gokase Junior High School Product! Dried Shiitake Mushrooms On Wednesday, November 6th, we observed a class of second-year students at Gokase Junior High School🍄‍🟫✨ The students handled every step themselves, from sorting and bagging the dried shiitake to setting the price🤗 The shiitake were grown as part of the school's curriculum. The current third-year students inoculated the logs last year, and the second-year students carried out the sorting and packaging this time👏 This year’s yield was lower than usual, so selecting good mushrooms was a tough task💦 However, the students enjoyed the work, consulting with each other—"Is this one okay?" "Maybe not…"—as they made their choices🤗 They weighed and bagged the mushrooms with sales in mind, aiming for balanced portions and an attractive appearance🤔 After sealing the packs neatly with a vacuum sealer, the students set the prices themselves, referring to current market rates👏 Those shiitake were actually sold at the Gokase Specialty Center at the prices the students decided😳✨ Finally, the students learned about log management and precautions, deepening their understanding of Gokase’s specialty product, log-grown shiitake😌✍️ We hope students continue to encounter and cherish the town’s specialties and culture from a young age and carry them forward into the future✨

Kokan Bridge (Kōkankyō) – Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property Kokan Bridge stands between Mie-machi in Bungoono City and Usuki in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The name Kokan means "a rainbow crossing a ravine," and true to its name it is a large, beautiful arched stone bridge spanning a mountain stream. Built in the late Edo period, it was erected on the road connecting Mie town and the castle town of Usuki. Because the river runs through a gorge, people of the time had to descend steep slopes, cross the river, and climb steep slopes again, enduring great hardship. To overcome this difficulty, wealthy merchants from Usuki and Mie pooled funds to build the bridge. This sturdy and elegant stone bridge is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. As an arched stone bridge from the Edo period, it is the largest in Oita Prefecture, with a span of 25.4 meters. Kokan Bridge was built where welded tuff from Aso pyroclastic flows had been deeply eroded by the river. Location: between Sugo, Mie-machi, Bungoono City and Nishihata, Notsu-machi, Usuki City, Oita Prefecture About a 35-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About a 4-minute drive from JR Sugaeo Station ■■■ Access to Bungoono City Center ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for sightseeing, dining, and accommodation in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Searching for Autumn in Gokase At Josenji Temple’s three sites, I finally found red maple leaves 😭✨ When I visited last time, only one part had turned red, but that single tree was completely crimson and beautiful 🍁👏 A maple behind the temple gate at the entrance had turned orange 💡 Passing through the gate, I saw a plant bearing glossy red berries… is this viburnum? 🤔 It added an autumnal touch 🤗 Farther in, there were pretty pink and purple plants 🥰 The pink is mayumi (Euonymus) and the purple is muwashikibu (Callicarpa). They somehow give a “girly” vibe🤣 So cute 💕 Josenji Temple might be the most beautifully colored spot in Gokase right now…!? Gokase Tourism Association is running “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” on their Instagram, so take photos while the leaves are still beautiful and enter the contest 🍁📸 See the pinned “Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024” post on their Instagram profile for details 🤗✨ This year the best leaves might be gone before you know it while waiting for peak color. Go find autumn for yourself 🤗✨

Announcement: The Grand Sumo Tournament is starting! Grand Sumo Kyushu Basho (November Tournament) It begins on Sunday, November 10! Iwanai-born rikishi Ichiyamamoto is East Maegashira 10! Please support him through the final day of the tournament!

Searching for Autumn in Gokase This time I’m sharing the fall foliage around Shirataki that I photographed just the other day🍁 To get straight to the point, the autumn colors are… not here😂! All we can do is gather the few red maple leaves scattered on the ground to create a touch of autumn😂 The maples along the slope from the parking lot to Shirataki (photos 2 and 3) have faded to a sparse yellow, so it doesn’t really feel like proper fall foliage😓 Well, they’re still pretty in their own way… but you really want to see maples in full red, right?😂 As you climb further toward Shirataki, there were even cherry blossoms blooming out of season🤣🌸 With the recent abnormal weather, the plants must be all confused💦 It’s raining today due to the typhoon (also strange for this season), but the forecast calls for clear skies from tomorrow, so let’s keep hoping the leaves will change more🙏🙏🙏 The Gokase Tourism Association’s Instagram is running “Gokase Autumn Foliage 2024,” so if you spot fall colors in Gokase, please enter and share your photos🍁📸 For details, see the pinned “Gokase Autumn Foliage 2024” post on the association’s Instagram profile🤗✨

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture "Kiyokawa ‘Aya’ Hoshouji in Autumn" Hoshouji sits in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history of more than 800 years. Known as "Aya no Hoshouji" or "Hoshouji in Autumn," it bursts into vivid color during the autumn leaves season. During the event period, the temple is lit up, and the enchanting atmosphere captivates visitors. Of course, it’s also beautiful during the daytime. [Event Period] Sunday, November 3, 2024–Sunday, November 10, 2024 Light-up: 17:30–21:00 [Location] Hoshouji (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa We will also post updates on foliage conditions on the Tourism Association’s Instagram. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Videos! This is the Kikuchi Tourism Association in Kumamoto Prefecture! Kikuchi City in Kumamoto Prefecture sits upstream along the Kikuchi River in the northern part of the prefecture, surrounded by clear river waters and lush green scenery. With a population of about 45,000, Kikuchi City attracts many visitors with its hot springs, beautiful gorges, and long-standing historic sites. Known as a “town of water,” its pure spring water supports the production of many local specialties. [History of Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture] Kikuchi City has a long history: during the Sengoku period (1070–1532), the Kikuchi clan flourished in the region for roughly 450 years. Saigo Takamori, a statesman from the late Edo to early Meiji period whose statue stands in Uenokouen, is said to be a descendant of the Kikuchi clan. At their height, the Kikuchi clan controlled much of Kyushu and made their name known across the country. [Popular Tourist Spots in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture] ■Kikuchi Gorge Kikuchi Gorge is one of Kumamoto Prefecture’s most beautiful natural attractions. You can enjoy pristine streams and seasonal scenery, with refreshing summers and autumn foliage as particular highlights. The gorge has earned recognition such as Japan’s Top 100 Forest Bathing Sites and Japan’s 100 Remarkable Waters. It’s ideal for forest bathing and hiking, offering a soothing experience on every visit. ■Kikuchi Shrine Kikuchi Shrine honors the famed warrior Kikuchi Takemitsu and lets visitors feel the depth of the city’s history. You can worship amid a beautiful shrine building and a solemn atmosphere that conveys historical weight. At the history museum, you can view cultural artifacts such as ancient documents related to the Kikuchi clan. ■Kikuchi Park Perched on a gentle hill, Kikuchi Park offers panoramic views over the city. It’s one of the city’s top cherry-blossom viewing spots, where around 3,000 cherry trees bloom in spring and draw many hanami visitors. ■Ryumon Dam Ryumon Dam ranks among the largest dams in Kumamoto Prefecture. This multipurpose dam on the Kikuchi River created Lake Hanjaku, which is maintained as a boating site. The lakeside plaza is set up for camping and events. Dam tours are also available. ■Kikuchi Onsen Kikuchi Onsen, discovered in 1954 (Showa 29), is famed for its smooth water, earning it nicknames like “bathing spot for beautiful skin” and “cosmetic bath.” A variety of facilities offer day-use baths and overnight stays for full relaxation. You can enjoy the hot springs alongside dishes made from local ingredients. ■Mt. Kuradake Mt. Kuradake rises to 1,118 meters and is popular for mountain climbing and hiking. From the summit you can take in spectacular views of Aso Mountain and the Kumamoto Plain, with panoramic scenery stretching far on clear days. It is listed among Kyushu’s 100 Famous Mountains and chosen for the National Top 100 Walks. ■Roadside Station Kyokushi Roadside Station Kyokushi, located along National Route 325, is a popular stop where you can buy fresh local produce and processed goods. A restaurant using Kyokushi beef and locally grown vegetables also offers takeout. [Local Specialties and Gourmet Foods of Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture] ■Kikuchi Rice Kikuchi City is also famous for its delicious rice. Kikuchi Rice, grown with abundant water and fertile soil, is known for its large grains and pronounced sweetness. It has earned high acclaim nationwide, including a gold prize at a past competition. ■Kikuchi Paddy-grown Burdock The popular local specialty “Kikuchi Paddy-grown Burdock” is cultivated in rice paddies, giving it a tender texture and strong sweetness. It tastes great simmered or as tempura and adds a distinctive touch to dishes. [Events and Festivals in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture] ■Kikuchi White Dragon Festival The Kikuchi White Dragon Festival, traditionally held in August, was moved to October in 2024 due to warming temperatures. Two white dragons—the adult dragon and the young dragon—are carried by many bearers in a powerful performance. The festival culminates in a fireworks display that colors Kikuchi’s night sky. [Tourist Information for Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture] Kikuchi City in Kumamoto Prefecture is a charming area of rich natural scenery and deep history. With beautiful gorges, hot springs, and historic shrines, the city offers diverse attractions and fresh discoveries in every season. It is easily accessible—about 60 minutes from kumamoto station and about 30 minutes from Aso Kumamoto Airport. We will continue to share recommended information full of Kikuchi City’s attractions, so please follow us!

The 22nd Fukushima Festival Today, Sunday, October 27th, the Fukushima Festival took place at the Welfare Center 😆👏 As always, we worried about rain, but amazingly it turned out sunny and even hot 🫢 It seems the people of Gokase Town’s good deeds convinced the weather to hold off the rain 😆 As soon as the event ended, though, it started raining right on cue ☂️ (laughs) The venue featured a bazaar booth stocked with a wide variety of items, and everyone was seriously checking each table for bargains 👀💡 There was also an exhibition booth showcasing lovely works created by local residents, and a wax ball-making experience booth run by the G Music Group, offering a relaxed, enjoyable program 🤗 So many delicious stalls lined up that I couldn’t decide what to have for lunch 🤤💕 Wandering around while deciding was part of the fun, though 🤩 The stage program included singing, dancing, and shamisen performances — it was truly fulfilling 🥳 The performers on stage and the cheering audience created a warm, unified atmosphere in the hall 😌💕 There were several moments when I was so moved that tears welled up as I held the camera (in fact, they even fell) 😭✨ In addition to the Social Welfare Council members, local junior high student volunteers and students from Kyushu University of Health and Welfare helped with the event’s operation 😳👏 Thanks to the students’ cooperation, the event took on a friendly, bright atmosphere 🫶 With this “Fukushima Festival,” the town’s October events have come to an end 🥹 November also brings many events 🤩 Everyone, to fully enjoy the upcoming events, please take care to avoid injuries and look after your health 🙌❤️‍🔥

Searching for Autumn in Gokase While taking photos for foliage updates, I went looking for autumn in Gokase🍁 Today I visited Gion Shrine in Kuraoka and three locations at Josenji Temple⛩️✨ ...but the leaves hadn’t changed color at all😂 Perhaps the lingering summer heat damaged the leaves and the small temperature differences are to blame🤔 Some maple-type trees showed partial color, but on closer inspection most leaves were blackened and withered in places😣 The maples at Josenji looked relatively pretty, but only in a few high-up sections, so overall it still feels like it’s just getting started💡 Josenji’s bamboo fence was repaired and looks fresh and neat👏 You can’t help but want to see that restored bamboo fence paired with beautiful autumn colors😭 Let’s pray the foliage progresses from here and keep watching over it🙏🙏🙏 The "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" event is also underway, so if you spot autumn colors in Gokase, please submit your photos🍁📸 For details, please see the pinned post titled "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" 🤗✨

Gokase Winery Harvest Festival 2024 Yesterday, Sunday, October 20, following last week’s events, Gokase Winery held the "Gokase Winery Harvest Festival 2024" to celebrate the release on Saturday, October 19 of the 2024 vintage new wines 🍷🎉 Although the rain from the day before was gone and the sky cleared, it turned sharply cold from the morning, and as the name suggests the Wind Hall felt chilled by strong, cold breezes today 🥶💦 Still, the crowd warmed up with a lineup of lively, exciting stage programs 🤩✨ Taiko drumming, hula dance, singing, and a raffle… and the familiar Hikari hosted the event 💡 Her light, bright hosting energized the audience greatly 🥳 She was so busy she kept appearing on stage again and again 🤣🤣🤣 Food stalls offering pizza, sausages, Kitaura scallops (hiougi kai), and various sweets that paired well with the new wine filled the venue and kept everyone happy 🤤💕 The highlights were the sashimi servings of sakuramai kampachi and tuna 🐟🍴✨ Fresh sakuramai kampachi, alive that very morning, were filleted on site and served to attendees 😍 Sakuramai kampachi raised on nutrient-rich pomace—the leftover pressed grapes from winemaking at Gokase Winery—have no fishy odor and less of the greasy taste typical of farmed fish, making them especially delicious 🤤💡 Lines snaked through the venue for the kampachi and tuna 😳 I managed to grab some myself; it had no off-putting smell, a smooth, mellow texture, and was truly delicious 🥰 The finale featured the main guest, Reiwa’s Showa-era pop song young star Kokoro Umetani, on stage 🎤✨ Kokoro appeared in an outfit that matched the wine-themed atmosphere 🤩🍷 Despite her cute appearance, her powerful, glamorous voice stunned the audience 😳✨ Fans had come from afar, including from Saitama Prefecture, to support her 👏 With fans and townspeople together, the stage reached a spectacular peak of excitement 🎉🎉🎉 At last, the newly released Gokase wines are now available. Although the summer heat had raised concerns about the harvest, the tireless efforts of local grape growers paid off. They harvested higher-than-usual sugar levels and aroma, producing exceptionally fine grapes and very tasty wine 🥹👏 I haven’t had a chance to drink it yet, so I can’t wait to taste it 🍷✨ Everyone, please enjoy the season’s wines.

[🍁 Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 🍁] Until Saturday, November 30! Of course, autumn too!! Instagram campaign 🥳✨ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of autumn leaves taken in Gokase town on Instagram with the two hashtags: #Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 and #Date of shooting (example: #October 31).👍💕 During the campaign, one person will receive a local specialty product from Gokase town every day as a gift 🎁❗ Outstanding works will receive a gift set of Gokase town specialties as well 🤩👏 Submitted works will be introduced on the Gokase Tourism Association’s social media and other channels as needed.🙇‍♀️ [Period] From Wednesday, October 16, 2024 to Saturday, November 30, 2024 ※Other terms and conditions are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. ※Please take care to avoid accidents when photographing. In particular, Shirataki is difficult to pass oncoming vehicles, and the road often has collapses and uplifts, so we do not recommend passage for those who are not confident driving or who do not want to risk damaging their vehicle. ------------------------------------------ Today I visited Unoko Falls, Yuhino Sato Bridge, and Gokase Gorge by car 🚗💨 From the Kuraoka area, it felt like Kuwanouchi and Sangasho areas had more advanced autumn colors.💡 The third photo is Unoko Falls that I took today! It looked like the leaves were just starting to change color. We will continue to update autumn foliage information on Instagram, Facebook, and our website, so please check them out.🤗 We look forward to many autumn leaf photos 🍁✨ Please send your entries enthusiastically—thank you 📸🙏

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City [The 43rd Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival] The Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival takes place at Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City. Enjoy the beautiful fall colors. During the festival, there will be illumination and local residents selling kusa-mochi (grass rice cakes) and other items. The leaves typically change color after November. [Period] Sunday, November 3, 2024 – Sunday, November 24, 2024 [Location] Yujaku Park (Kaminokozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) [Parking] Available Illuminations [Dates] Friday, November 8; Friday, November 15; Saturday, November 16; Sunday, November 17; Friday, November 22 Saturday, November 23 [Time] From sunset until 9:00 PM Yujaku Night Kagura: Mizukagami (Water Mirror) [Date and Time] Saturday, November 9, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM ※In case of rain, the performance will be postponed to the following day [Location] Special floating stage on the Shinji Pond at Yujaku Park For event inquiries (Mizukagami, foliage conditions, etc.) Bungoono City Hall Asaji Branch Phone: 0974-72-1111 We will also post foliage updates on the Tourist Association’s Instagram. --- Access to downtown Bungoono City --- Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture -------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, local food, and accommodations in Bungoono City: Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile. --------

【October 13 — First Clear Sky in Seven Years!? Sunset Village Festa】 Yesterday, Sunday, October 13, the “Sunset Village Festa” took place at the Gokase Winery event square 🥳👏 Blessed with gloriously sunny weather that felt almost hot ☀️, the Sunset Village Festa had been plagued by rain for years, and this was the first time in seven years the event could be held in the square 😮❗ Vendors from neighboring Takachiho and Yamato towns joined in, and the venue was lively from the very start 🤗 On stage, familiar host “Dancing MC Nagisa Mama” led the program, which featured many acts—drums, dance, kagura, banba dance, practical karate, a performance by Gekidan Munno, a raffle interlude, and more—creating nonstop excitement 🤩💫 Nearby, a sweet potato digging experience ran alongside the festival, with children and adults getting happily muddy as they dug in 🍠✨ It felt like a true autumn event—take your harvest home and enjoy it deliciously 🤤💕 And of course, the headline guest MICA gave a live show that got everyone on their feet 🎤🌟 The crowd kept calling for encores—proof that everyone had a great time 🥳 MICA even said she’d love to come back 🎶 Everywhere you looked, the event was full of smiling faces—truly wonderful and so much fun 😆❤️‍🔥 More events are coming up, so let’s keep enjoying them to the fullest 🤩💪💕

Gion Shrine Autumn Festival “Okunchi” Today, Wednesday, October 9, the Gion Shrine in Kuraoka District held its autumn festival “Okunchi.”🤗 The light rain that fell until yesterday felt like a distant memory under a clear, delightful autumn sky.☀️ Gion-san’s power is truly amazing.👏✨ Even though the festival fell on a weekday this year, visitors from outside the prefecture and local children gathered from the start of the ceremony.😊 We were allowed into the main hall and were able to see the “Urayasu no Mai” dance.🥹 It was a beautiful dance that radiated tradition.✨ The Gion kagura also came with detailed explanations about how it differs from other kagura, which made it even more enjoyable.🤩 The Usu-daiko drum dance invited everyone, including the general public, to join in lively dancing, and the playful exchanges of the Yamaboshi question-and-answer skit added a comedic touch that made people chuckle.🤣 Traditional events can sometimes seem formal and stern, but this festival was anything but that—it was a truly entertaining celebration.💫 After the Usu-daiko dance there was a mochi-throwing event, and the festival concluded with a dedication of the Gion kagura, keeping the atmosphere lively from start to finish.🤗🎉

A kagura festival in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. [The 37th Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament] Would you like to come and see the vigorous, splendid dances of kagura? [Date and Time] Sunday, October 27, 2024 — performances start at 8:30 AM (scheduled) [Venue] Kagura-no-Sato Nobaba Park (Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) [Parking] Available Please note that parking spaces near the venue are limited. On the day, a shuttle bus will run from JR Bungokiyokawa Station. [Shuttle Bus (free)] Round-trip service between JR Bungokiyokawa Station and the venue JR Bungokiyokawa Station → via Kagura Hall (with parking) → Nobaba Park [Performing Groups] Asakusa-ryu Saeda Kagura (Notsu, Usuki City) Shonaihara Kagura Preservation Society (Shonai, Yufu City) Nakae Iwato Kagura Preservation Society (Namino, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture) Ontake-ryu Yoshida Rigakusa (Yoshida, Taketa City) Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) Ontake Kagura (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) [Admission] Please pay at the venue entrance on the day. 500 yen for junior high school students and older (unreserved seating) Please refrain from reserving spots in advance of the day. ■■■ About the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament The Ontake kagura passed down in Kiyokawa is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. This tradition has been handed down for centuries, and kagura in this lineage spread through Ono, Naoiri, the southern part of the prefecture, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the national government. We launched the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament in 1988 to reexamine this local culture of kagura born from Kiyokawa’s landscape and to promote regional revitalization through kagura. The tournament gathers traditional cultures from many areas into one event. Centered on Ontake kagura, the bold and brilliant dances, along with the splendid performances by the Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society that carry the Ontake tradition into the future, captivate many kagura fans. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website from the profile. ----------

Thursday, October 3 — G Class: Tea Pan-Frying Experience at Miyazaki Sabou🍵 Today, third graders from four elementary schools across Gokase Town gathered at Miyazaki Sabou for a G class✍️💡…so I was able to observe their visit👀✨ We had considered skipping the tea-picking experience because of light rain, but the kids’ energy cleared the sky enough for a short session, so we did a little picking👏👏👏 Chanting “one bud, two leaves!” everyone happily hand-picked tea leaves🌿 After that, the group split into three teams to do 1) a factory tour, 2) a pan-frying experience, and 3) a tasting session✍️✨ 1) The factory was full of first-time sights! Different tea aromas drifted through the air, and just watching the tour felt soothing🤤💕 When told that a single tea leaf can become green tea, oolong tea, or black tea, the kids gasped “Whaaaat!?” with perfect reactions😳💮💮💮 lol 2) The pan-frying experience stemmed from what they heard on the tour: machines roast leaves at 200–300°C, so the kids nervously asked, “Is it hot!?”🤣 But trying it turned out to be fun🤩 They watched, fascinated, as the leaves dried and released a pleasant aroma, commenting “I like this smell!” and “But it’s tiring~💦” while learning the pan-fried tea production process😊 3) They learned about types of tea utensils and how to use them, the ideal water temperature for brewing, and other tips for making tasty tea, then each brewed and tasted pan-fried tea themselves🍵✨ One child said it smelled like corn soup, which surprised me, but apparently pan-fried tea is often said to have a corn-like flavor😮💡 The children’s sensitivities never cease to amaze me👏 They compared four teas by taste and tried to identify which was pan-fried tea, oolong, hojicha, or black tea. Many struggled, confused by the familiar colors and aromas🤣 Did you know? Taiwanese and Gokase oolong teas are closer in color to green tea rather than brown😏✏️ At the end, during the Q&A, the children asked sharp questions to the producers and summarized what they had learned✍️💫 The kids experienced the full charm of Gokase’s pan-fried tea and felt the producers’ passion😌 I hope they take pride in this local specialty and help weave the future of Gokase Town✨

Inukai Stone Buddha (National Historic Site) The Inukai Stone Buddha stands in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The Inukai Stone Buddha is a rock-carved image sculpted into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years ago. Based on the style of the figure, it is estimated to have been created in the Kamakura period. Although it represents Fudo Myo-o, its gentle facial expression is striking. The knees appear to sit in a cross-legged position, yet the carving gives the impression of being viewed from above, which is an intriguing technique. The stone Buddha is protected by a shelter, and the cliff above the roof bears the inscription "Ryudenzan." On the cliff to the upper right of the shelter, the large inscription reads "Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo." Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------